Quality Land Developments
How Land Developers can Make Their Projects Stand Out From the Crowd
May 29, 2009
First, land developers should plan well. Now's the time to bring in a professional- either a landscape architect, land planner, or civil engineer. As part of the project team, they'll work to match the site to the development program- or, if the developers already have a development site, make sure the program will work on that particular property.
A site feasibility study helps. The feasibility study should analyze the physical and cultural characteristics of the property, investigate opportunities and constraints, and determine the best way to use the site from a functional, geometric and aesthetic standpoint based on the development program and budget.
Landscaping for the Land Development
Once the land developers have a workable plan, make sure saving existing vegetation during the construction process is a project mandate. Limit grade disturbance and protect native vegetation for an immediate "mature" look. Supplemental landscaping can perform triple duty with a plan designed to control erosion and sedimentation and replace trees per ordinance, as well as meet conventional landscape and garden objectives.
Land Development Conservation Principles
Conserving natural waterways and drainage paths will save land developers money on storm drainage, storm water detention and water quality measures, with the added benefit of protecting neighbors downstream. And using pervious paving blocks as part of the land development's storm water management program not only contributes to water quality, but adds an aesthetic accent.
A hierarchy of vehicular and pedestrian pathways linking neighborhoods and community centers and amenities is also a good idea. And work to ensure the development is livable and appealing to people. Plan for intimate areas, secret nooks, pocket gardens and courtyards, outdoor rooms, and social gathering places for both small, intimate gatherings and larger groups. A village common with shops, small offices, restaurants, and loft housing can really contribute to a sense of community and offer gathering places, sidewalk eateries, and entertainment venues.
Land Development Details
Use "themed" hardscape materials that harmonize with the architectural scheme planned for the development, and accent focal points with sculpture, specimen plants, and outdoor structures. Use plants that attract birds, butterflies and wildlife, and provide animal habitat and shelter. Land developers will reap benefits later on as the community comes alive with vibrant motion, color and activity from critters doing their thing and intermingling with residents.
Proper lighting can create mood, communicate, and offer security as well as illuminate. Utilities from recycled gray water for landscape irrigation to harvested rainwater to fiber optics and Internet accessibility can enhance the livability of the development.
And to really help a development stand out from the competition? Invite the neighbors and the surrounding community to participate in the site planning process. This one act may well pay the highest dividends in a project that is well received by everyone. And the good will generated in the community is money in the bank.
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